‘Christmas Around the World’ reflected in Gentry’s Parade
GENTRY — Even though weather forecasters had given an unpleasant wintry forecast for Saturday night, the freezing rain and snow did not materialize in Gentry and, other than cold temperatures and a few sprinkles during the lineup, the weather cooperated and the parade was well attended.
Crowds of people lined Main Street to watch the floats and decorated vehicles pass by and, at least for the children, to gather pockets full of candy tossed out to paradegoers by those riding and walking in the annual Chamber-sponsored Gentry Christmas Parade.
“Christmas Around the World” was the theme for this year’s parade, and the floats certainly conveyed that theme with flags, customs and Christmas greetings in multiple languages from around the world.
In addition to the floats and vehicles, there were decorated ATVs and a large group of equestrian entries in the parade. A neighborhood group from South Little Avenue again passed out stuffed toys to the children along the parade route.
Mayor Kevin Johnston and his wife, Lori, led the parade and greeted paradegoers.
At the rear of the parade and riding in the bucket of Engine 32 was Santa Claus, ringing a bell and greeting visitors along the parade route. He also spent the afternoon at the Gentry Chamber of Commerce office, visiting with children, hearing their Christmas wishes and passing out special goodies.
Winners in the float categories this year included: Best Overall — Travis Broadbooks, NWA Christmas Vacation (based on the Griswold Family Christmas Vacation); Best Lights — Gentry City Water Department; and Best use of Theme and Best Sound — Bloomfield 4-H.